The ramifications of Lionel Messi’s departure from Barcelona continue to reverberate through the corridors of Camp Nou, as the club finds itself obligated to honor financial commitments to the Argentine superstar even years after his departure.
In a surprising revelation, Barcelona President Joan Laporta has disclosed that the Catalan giants are contractually bound to make payments to Messi for an additional two years, with the arrangement set to extend until at least 2025. This peculiar arrangement persists despite Messi’s current affiliation with Inter Miami and his failed attempts to secure a return to his beloved Barcelona.
During an interview with Spanish radio’s Cadena SER, Laporta shed light on the missed opportunity to reunite with Messi and confirmed the club’s ongoing financial obligations to the player, stating that “everything is agreed with him.”
Barcelona’s well-documented financial struggles prevented them from extending a contract offer to the legendary forward during the recent transfer window. However, Laporta took the opportunity to clarify the situation, emphasizing that the outstanding payments are solely in the form of salary deferrals previously agreed upon with the club’s former board. These deferrals, which Barcelona is faithfully honoring, are set to conclude in 2025. Laporta assured, “We are paying everything religiously.”
The financial landscape surrounding Messi presents an intriguing picture, as the iconic footballer continues to reap the rewards of his immense popularity. Astonishingly, despite declining a move to a Saudi Pro League club after leaving Paris Saint-Germain, Messi remains a recipient of lucrative payments from Saudi Arabian authorities for commercial appearances.
Meanwhile, his decision to embark on a new chapter in his career with Inter Miami has proved highly profitable. The reported contract, valued between $125 million and $150 million (£100 million and £120 million), spans over two-and-a-half years, ensuring Messi’s financial prosperity during his tenure in Major League Soccer.
As the ink dries on his expired contract with Paris Saint-Germain (as of June 30), Messi officially dons the colors of Inter Miami. All eyes eagerly await his first appearance for the American outfit, with the upcoming Leagues Cup home game against Cruz Azul on July 21 potentially marking the historic moment when Messi takes the field for his new club.
The footballing world remains captivated by the twists and turns of Messi’s career trajectory, while Barcelona’s enduring financial commitment to their former talisman serves as a constant reminder of the impact he had on the storied club.